Review on The Royal Oak Inn
Set in a postcard-pretty village on the eastern fringes of Exmoor National Park, the Royal Oak looks every inch the archetypal English country pub, right down to its thick stone walls and immaculate thatched roof. The building itself - a twelfth-century farmhouse and dairy - has evolved over the centuries but still retains much of its original atmosphere (even though modern creature comforts and accommodation are now part of the attraction).
Inside, it feels smart and civilised, with comfortable country-house lounges, spick-and-span bar areas, cushioned pews and wood-burning stoves. You can eat informally from a daily menu that stays with robust old favourites like braised lamb shank with sweet potato mash or Exmoor venison casserole with thyme dumplings, backed up by traditional desserts such as apple and plum crumble.
Meals in the restaurant are more ambitious, although local produce is still at the heart of things. Begin with confit of duck and bordelaise sauce or Exe Valley smoked trout and salmon with lime and coriander yoghurt, before braised pork belly and seared tenderloin with caramelised Braeburn apples or monkfish wrapped in Parma ham with tarragon hollandaise. To finish, look for tarte Tatin with Exmoor Blue cheese ice cream or hot chocolate fondant. The wine list is a well chosen slate bolstered by a smattering fine Burgundies and Bordeaux.
The Royal Oak Inn is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Gastro pub / Modern European
Chef
David Sylvester
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 8.45 - 9.45am
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm
Dinner: 6.00 - 8.00pm
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express